LAHORE (MNN); The Punjab government has unveiled a Rs3 billion initiative to deploy 30 advanced fog cannons mounted on electric trucks in a renewed push to tackle escalating smog and air pollution across major cities and industrial zones.
The programme forms a central pillar of the province’s broader clean air and climate resilience strategy, aimed at reducing airborne pollutants and reinforcing environmental safeguards.
According to officials, the battery-operated vehicles are equipped with high-capacity mist spraying systems designed to suppress dust and significantly cut levels of hazardous particulate matter. These vehicles will be stationed in pollution-prone urban centres and industrial clusters to ensure targeted intervention.
In a parallel move, Rs2.25 billion has been allocated under the Lahore Air Improvement Framework to implement a comprehensive clean air plan in the provincial capital. Authorities are introducing a new “super station” monitoring system that will allow real-time identification of pollution sources — a first-of-its-kind step for Lahore.
The government is also rolling out a “One City, One Policy” model to streamline air quality governance and ensure uniform environmental standards across Lahore.
Across Punjab, more than 50 modern air quality monitoring units have already been installed. An automated quality control mechanism has been introduced to enhance the accuracy and transparency of environmental data. Additionally, a digital surveillance system is being activated to strengthen oversight of industrial emissions.
Further measures include upgrading environmental laboratories, installing advanced testing equipment, and establishing specialised forensic facilities to investigate violations related to emissions.
To guarantee effective execution of these initiatives, the government will establish an Environment and Climate Delivery Unit. This body will monitor progress through a digital dashboard and ensure compliance with environmental targets throughout the province.
